How safe are Teflon® and other Fluoropolymer Coatings?

Teflon® was discovered nearly 70 years ago and has been used safely
on cookware for over 40 years. Teflon® has been used since the 1940’s
on automotive, military, personal use, and industrial products. Many Teflon®
and other fluoropolymer coatings are permitted for use in contact with
food in compliance with the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and
applicable regulations, including 21 CFR.

There is one known health hazard associated with Teflon, inhalation of
fumes produced during degradation of the coating. Temporary flue-like
symptoms (known as polymer fume fever) can occur when the fumes from overheated
fluoropolymers are inhaled. Typically the fluoropolymer coating would
have to be heated to an excess of 500°F to begin to deteriorate. Fumes
are not typically given off until the fluoropolymer significantly decomposes
(660°F). Fats, butter, and cooking oil tend to scorch and smoke at
only 400°F. When used properly Teflon® non-stick products are
safe.

DuPont states “Teflon® cookware is formulated and quality tested
to resist peeling or chipping, which will only occur if cookware is misused.
However, in the event that particles from Teflon® cookware are accidentally
eaten, there is no danger. These particles are non-toxic. If eaten, they
pass directly through the body and are not absorbed. The FDA has stated
that eating Teflon® particles does not pose a health hazard”.

For more information about safeguarding your pet bird from dangers in the kitchen, click
here.

In another matter, in recent years the EPA and industry have been
studying PFOA to determine what if any human health effects exist. PFOA
is a polymerization aid, not an ingredient, used to help make fluoropolymers.
It is largely removed during the final steps of polymer production and
by the high temperatures used when most fluoropolymers are made into
finished products. The EPA has said, “Although our risk assessment
activities are not complete and new data may change the current picture,
to date EPA is not aware of any studies specifically relating current
levels of PFOA exposure to human health effects”. The EPA has
also stated
“At the present time, EPA does not believe there is any reason
for consumers to stop using any products because of concerns about PFOA”.

Recently there have been rumors, misconceptions, and unsubstantiated
claims regarding PFOA, its safety, and its effect on Teflon® and
other fluoropolymer coatings. In order to reduce concerns related to
PFOA, industry has improved manufacturing processes and controls to
reduce the use and emissions of PFOA. The EPA and industry have a stated
goal of virtually eliminating the release of PFOA into the environment
by 2015.